Abstract: Methods of altering properties of tissues, by providing an effective modifying amount of zinc, which may be in the form of zinc ions. This is accomplished through the use of topical compositions containing one or more zinc-containing components such as salts and/or other zinc compounds or complexes, particularly zinc acetate. Altering properties of tissues includes increasing or decreasing fatty tissue, increasing or decreasing epidermal thickness, increasing elastin content, and preventing or treating gum regression or atrophy. Also disclosed is the provision of a contact lens coated with a zinc-containing material, to improve vision by increasing elastin content of the lens of the eye through release of zinc ions.

Abstract: Compositions of matter comprise linked pluralities of mTOR-binding molecules, such as rapamycin. The compositions may be directly polymerized or may comprise rapamycin or other mTOR-binding molecules covalently or non-covalently attached to a backbone molecule. The compositions may be bound to vascular prostheses and other implantable devices in order to inhibit hyperplasia or for other therapeutic purposes.

Abstract: Compositions of matter comprise linked pluralities of mTOR-binding molecules, such as rapamycin. The compositions may be directly polymerized or may comprise rapamycin or other mTOR-binding molecules covalently or non-covalently attached to a backbone molecule. The compositions may be bound to vascular prostheses and other implantable devices in order to inhibit hyperplasia or for other therapeutic purposes.

Abstract: Oligomers of L-arginine may be used to provide prophylactic or therapeutic cosmetic or other enhancements to keratinous tissues such as skin, hair, lips and gums through vasodilation. Topical compositions preferably comprise (a) an enhancing effective amount of an oligomer having from 7 to 15 subunits, each subunit consisting of a member of the group selected from L-arginine and physiologically acceptable salts of L-arginine that enhance vasodilation through production of nitric oxide, and (b) a cosmetically or dermatologically acceptable vehicle.

Abstract: Methods of altering properties of tissues, by providing an effective modifying amount of zinc, which may be in the form of zinc ions. This is accomplished through the use of topical compositions containing one or more zinc-containing components such as salts and/or other zinc compounds or complexes, particularly zinc acetate.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices using zinc, and methods therefore, provide one or more advantageous effects to a tissue. In one embodiment, at least one zinc-containing component is coupled with a stent via one or more zinc chelators to enhance resistance of the stent to plaque formation and in-stent restenosis. Elastin production may also be enhanced by devices coupled with zinc. Enhanced elastin production may be used, for example, to treat a blood vessel in location at or near an aneurysm. In some embodiments, both elastin production and plaque resistance are enhanced. For example, zinc may be applied via a gel or other carrier substance to a venous graft for enhancing elastin and resisting plaque formation. Implantable devices coupled with zinc may provide improved results of medical and surgical procedures involving implantable devices, thus reducing the need for repeat procedures.